Those models sure are awesome and technically impresive. They even might have some elements other alike models don't... but I'm so tired of seeing mechas over there.

Over time, some artists were not technical monsters but creative geniuses. The topic is craft a God. Really, finding myself facing that model from leewiart sure leaves my underwear dirty... but I wouldn't say: "Hey run! It's a God!"...

My experience with judges is 0, but I trust we have some really original and creative ppl working here. I won't fight against that bunch of hard surface detailing, that's for sure.

It's a European thing! They tend to be more skilled with art. Also, many geniuses come from European stock. Not to say that the rest of the world is stupid or talentless. It's just that, in general, cultural influence can shape ones skills and abilities.

It's scary when you look at other peoples' work and be discouraged but there is a specific outline which people have to stick to and the work can be pointless if the guidelines aren't followed to what the "client" wants.

Also, just because a piece is complex and technically impressive doesn't mean that's what the judges are looking for. Just keep working on your pieces with pride as this is also a learning experience.

It's a European thing! They tend to be more skilled with art. Also, many geniuses come from European stock

its a education thing. i remember when we were still in soviet union and after that for about 10 years we had allmost the same program at schools that gave wery strong education. arts and physical education were no exlusion.

So... those russians are trained to craft ultra modern technology weapons then as you can see by their entries :P

speaking from a scientific point -YES. people from former USSR block that are born in 20th century grew up smarter and stronger cause there were this akward situation - all the worl was 10years in fornt of them and the ussr was like a gigant jungle. you had to outsmart or overpower the people and system to live. its hard to explain the whole thing in a few words. its all in the way that people think.
and what i just said is from a personal experiance (i my slef am from a former ussr) and from scientific books i have red.